DL Unit 27: Psychology of Behaviour

Human behaviour is diverse and complex, with any one action potentially being explained in a number of ways depending on the perspective taken. The area of psychology seeks to explain human behaviour through the scientific study of the human mind. In particular, organisational psychology applies theory to the workplace to increase employee, employer and public satisfaction while criminal psychology seeks to understand the thoughts, intentions and reactions of offenders.

This unit has been designed to develop students’ understanding of psychological approaches and how these are applied in the public services, before relating them to criminal behaviour. Students will explore theorists and their psychological theories, investigating how these are practically applied in the public service workplace, and looking at how they explain criminal behaviour. Students will consider the influence groups have on behaviour, including obedience, conformity, prejudice and discrimination, and assess why this is relevant to the public services.